Rookie re-signs with Rebels

The Rebels have re-signed talented youngster Jordy Reid on a two-year deal which will see him at the franchise until 2015.

The Rebels have re-signed talented youngster Jordy Reid on a two-year deal which will see him at the franchise until 2015.

The Manly Marlin, easily distinguishable by his massive dreadlocks, has impressed in a number of bench cameos since joining the franchise last October and after finding himself named for his first start against the Cheetahs this coming weekend, now has double the reason to celebrate.

"I wanted to stay, and it's nice to have the opportunity to stay longer, especially so soon after coming," Reid explained.

"It is good to know that the coaches like what I am doing; it's a great group of guys and I'm really excited to be hanging around for the future."

Reid has beaten experienced heads Jarrod Saffy and Scott Fuglistaller to the No.7 jersey this weekend, and whilst the youngster admits he didn't expect everything to happen so quickly, he feels comfortable already at this level.

"It has been a lot of hard work since I came in, especially trying to make sure I understood the game plan and the structures. I didn't expect my first start to come so quickly, but I am confident on the field in Super 15 and I believe my preparation has me physically ready and my fitness is up to scratch.

"Having a few minutes towards the end of games has helped me get used to the size of my opponents and the speed and physical nature of the game, but I feel really comfortable, ready and confident."

Rebels' captain Gareth Delve has enjoyed being involved with the youngster on his first overseas rugby tour, and believes Reid has earned his chance.

"Jordy has responded fantastically in training. He is a great guy who wants to work hard outside the field as well as on it.

"Super 15 gives younger guys a great opportunity to go overseas and quashes any idea of a holiday; we do as much as we can to keep the environment normal and retain focus, and Jordy has done a huge amount of work."

With a first start and a contract extension already a key positive during a tough Rebels' week, let's hope Reid can look to have a definitive impact on the game and play a key part in a big Rebels upset this weekend.